If you have an aging parent or relative, they may eventually need additional support to navigate daily activities safely. Depending on their situation, you have two primary options for ensuring they get the help they need: an assisted living community and a nursing home. Each option provides a different level of care and caters to certain situations. Below is more information about each one to help you decide.

Assisted Living

This option is for people who need some help with daily chores and activities but don't require around-the-clock medical care. The caregivers who work in these communities provide everything from daily meals to medication reminders and help with grooming and bathing. This ensures your loved one is eating properly and staying healthy during their time in the community. Residents often live in individual apartments and maintain a level of independence, as they are not constantly monitored. Instead, they can choose to spend their days how they please.

The staff at an assisted living center also handle many daily chores, including housekeeping and laundry. They even provide transportation to medical appointments and grocery stores, and they may offer fun outings for residents, such as to nearby museums or events. Many communities also offer a variety of in-house activities for residents, such as book clubs, craft classes, and movie nights.

Nursing Home

Nursing homes are for seniors who require a higher level of medical care. Generally, residents of these communities require more assistance with feeding, bathing, and other daily tasks. For example, this type of community often has dedicated physicians and nurses on the staff so that they can provide medication and monitor the health of residents. They also usually have a memory care unit, which is for people who have Alzheimer's disease or dementia. The living arrangement offers 24/7 care for residents to ensure they are safe and healthy. The team is also more experienced at helping people who have complex health issues and mobility concerns.

Most nursing homes also have medical professionals and equipment on-site. For example, they may have an area with X-ray machines in case a resident falls, and physical, speech, and occupational therapists may be available several days each week. Nursing homes also offer both short- and long-term options, depending on an individual's needs.

If you're looking for a caring, compassionate assisted living or nursing home community, contact Red Oak Residence in North Bend, WA. Their beautiful and intimate apartment complex features a host of amenities to make residents feel at home. From social activities to on-site nursing staff, all residents are treated with dignity and compassion. Visit the website to learn more about their services, and call (425) 888-7108 to schedule a tour.